Passage 17

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In plain words

Education is glucose for all weak feelings. Not only this. Education is what gives sacred strength to one who sinks in faintheartedness and helplessness. This is what is called calcium. All at once it gives one a sudden surge. Education is not what makes one weak and powerless in some way, sinking in the worry of what will become of one's life. Many think that studying is only for the sake of jobs. Education is not what hands you this begging bowl. With the intention that we must not use money at all for an education of this kind, we are doing away with all the fees. By that we shall have lightened the burden of the parents somewhat. Besides that, we shall have given a chance to many who lack the means. There are so many who cannot study for want of money. If this chance is given, all of them will be able to join here. In our University there must be no distinction of rich and poor. In Bombay and in Madras some people said this. "There are some who can pay to study, aren't there? A fee could be set for them, and free education given to the poor." But when such distinctions are made, our institution sinks altogether. With just this intention, that there must be no distinction at all, I made the announcement there too. There must be no distinction. One food for all, one education for all. One training for all. One feeling for all. This, on which all faiths agree, is Sai's own view. I asked them a question: Who is the poorest man in this world, and who is the richest man in the world. Some gave many kinds of answers. I told them. He who has much satisfaction is the richest man. He who has much desires is the poorest man.

So you must take this as a vow. All must live in unity. Unity is our true strength. Without any distinctions in this, and without making study your only aim, you must make your minds blossom morally, in Dharma and spiritually. Not all need become Tyāgarājas. Not all need become Tulasīdāses. Not all need become Kabīrs. It is Swami's wish that at least some of you keep their feelings in mind, use them with presence of mind as the occasion asks, and so make your lives worthwhile.